China holds a leading position in the global economy thanks to its developed infrastructure and vast volume of international shipments. China's ports play a key role in global trade. Thousands of containers are dispatched from them daily to all corners of the world. Based on 2023 statistics, we have compiled this top 10 list of international ports. Their significance in the development of the global economy can be measured by their annual container cargo turnover.
The largest in the world by cargo turnover and container shipping. Its strategic location on the coast of the East China Sea makes it a key link in international trade. Shanghai's specialization is broad and diverse. From here, maritime shipping of various types of cargo from China is carried out: raw materials, grain crops, petroleum products, consumer goods. In 2023, its container cargo turnover amounted to 49.16 million TEU (a standard measure of container ship capacity).
The deepest seaport in China, capable of accommodating the largest container ships. It is known for its capacity to handle containers and liquid cargo. Ningbo plays an important role in the transportation of various minerals (petroleum products, coal), as well as timber. For many trading companies, it has become an alternative to Shanghai, which has been excessively congested in recent years. Container throughput is 35.30 million TEU.
This major port in China is located in Shandong Province on the coast of the Yellow Sea. It has specialized infrastructure focused on the transportation of grain and petroleum products, making it an important hub for energy and agricultural logistics. It has connections with 130 countries worldwide. Container throughput is 30.00 million TEU.
The second largest port in China, almost matching Shanghai in size and cargo turnover. It is located in the southern part of the country and serves major industrial centers such as Shenzhen and Guangdong. Electronics, clothing, and chemical products are exported from here. Shenzhen is in demand due to its affordable tariffs and fees. Container cargo turnover is 29.88 million TEU.
It is one of the oldest and most significant in foreign trade, as it is among the 5 largest ports in China. It is located at the mouth of the Zhujiang River and plays a key role in trade with Southeast Asia. Overall, it has connections with 80 countries worldwide. Guangzhou handles international logistics for the transportation of automobiles, construction materials, and agricultural products. Container throughput is 25.41 million TEU.
One of the largest and busiest ports in the northeast of the country. This is a free port of China, where a free trade zone operates. Additionally, it is located near Beijing and serves the capital region, making Tianjin a key center for the development of international trade and the Chinese economy. It specializes in the import of fertilizers, rice, coal, as well as the export of rolled metal and natural stone. Container throughput is 22.17 million TEU.
A major international transportation hub, known for its high throughput capacity and efficiency. It serves as a key link between the PRC and international markets, particularly in Asia and America. The main specialization is the export of electronics, textiles, and consumer goods. Hong Kong has a developed, modern infrastructure, which allows it to accommodate vessels of various types. Container throughput is 14.34 million TEU.
Located in the southeast of China and playing an important role in trade with Taiwan and Southeast Asian countries. It is included in the list of ports in China with a free trade zone. This determines a significant influence on the regional economy, effective support for the development of small and medium-sized businesses. Xiamen specializes in the transportation of electronics, textile products, and seafood. Container cargo turnover is 12.55 million TEU.
Falls into the category of major ports of China, despite being founded relatively recently in 1994. Located in Shenzhen. Yantian is developing rapidly, establishing connections with markets in North and Latin America, Oceania. Container cargo turnover is 12.49 million TEU.
Located in the south of the country in the Guangxi Zhuang region in the Gulf of Tonkin, which is part of the South China Sea. Its location at the intersection of maritime routes from the South China Sea to the Pacific Ocean enables convenient delivery of cargo to Southeast Asian countries and Australia. Beibu Gulf is a rapidly growing and developing seaport in China. It specializes primarily in the import of raw materials (oil, liquefied gas, bulk ore, etc.) and vegetable oils. Exports include coal, fertilizers, and phosphoric acid. Container cargo throughput is 8.02 million TEU.
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